Hi, my name is Hattie! My job at Olana is split between being one of the dressmakers and studio assistant. I have the lovely job of sewing the dresses, and when I’m not doing that, I’m usually helping Jodie keep the studio organised, packing and posting parcels, or working on the website, newsletters or the next big Olana project.
My mum first taught me to sew when I was little, making bunting, covered notebooks and tiny pyjamas for my teddies. As I got older, I became more and more interested in how clothes were made, using my dad’s mathematical brain to create patterns from my favourite tops. Textiles was always my favourite subject at school, and when it came to choosing a degree, I followed my curiosity for the craftsmanship of clothing and studied Fashion Atelier and Tailoring. Since graduating, I’ve worked in bridal and the textile industry.
In 2025, I met Jodie, who was looking for a new dressmaker to join the studio, and I fell in love with what she was doing at Olana. I like to think fate brought me here. The building we’re based in is the very same building my Grandma Betty worked in when it was the tobacco house (I have black and white photos of her and her work friends outside the front door), and I’m following in the footsteps of my Grandma Margret, who was a seamstress.
In the studio, you’ll always find me at my sewing machine, whether it’s a sewing day or a laptop day, with a coffee and a snack on hand (my snack of choice is always blueberries). I like to think of myself as a methodical, tidy worker, but by the end of the day I usually have every sewing tool imaginable piled on my machine!
Outside the studio, I always have a project on the go, making things for my family, friends or home. I’m always looking to learn or discover something new, whether that’s through travel, music or books.
My Favourite Piece to Make
I love making the Margo Vest and Laurie Short co-ords, especially in the Striped Floral Linen. I just think they look fab, and the fabric is so lovely to sew with.
A piece I’ve never made, but am always pestering Jodie to re-release, is the Amelie Dress, with its bow-tie shoulder straps and silk fabric. I think that would outrank the co-ords as my favourite piece to make!
My Favourite Pieces to Wear
This is always changing with each season. So I'll have to tell you my favourites from each...
Spring / Summer
The Bluebelle is an all-time favourite for me. I love the blue floral design on the fabric and the little details down to the straps and waist ties makes it such a classically beautiful dress.
Autumn / Winter
This year I have fallen in love with the Noelle, specifically in midi. She is elegant and so timeless... I just feel its a dress I will wear for years to come and then be the dress my future daughters fight over.
Bridal
Since before I started at Olana I have had my heart set in the Amelia Wedding Dress for when the day comes. She's just simply gorgeous and I have a vision of her paired with a vintage lace veil.
Why I Love Being a Part of Olana
Olana is a really special place. I’ve always dreamed of working somewhere that values craftsmanship as much as I do, and now I get to spend my days doing exactly that, alongside people who feel the same.
I love that we're a small team, but we have big goals, and every one of us believes in Olana and what we can build together.
I feel very lucky to be part of it all.
